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11 Most Shocking Reality Show Winners

By:
Hollywood.com Staff

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Jermaine Paul, 'The Voice,' Season 2

"No One" expected underdog Jermaine Paul to take the competition from seemingly unstoppable former Mouseketeer Tony Lucca, but against all odds, Alicia Keys' former back-up singer was crowned the Season 2 victor.

Photo: NBC

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Taylor Hicks, 'American Idol,' Season 5

The soulful singer beat out tall, leggy beauty Katharine McPhee to the surprise of most 'Idol' viewers. (Especially those rooting for fourth-place finisher Chris Daughtry.) How did the grey-haired soul singer become the oldest contestant to win 'Idol' at age 29? Just ask "The Soul Patrol." At least Katharine's got 'Smash'!

Photo: FOX

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Ann Ward, 'America's Next Top Model,' Cycle 15

Despite her crippling shyness and the public backlash she suffered when Tyra Banks praised the remarkably skinny model, Ann went on to be crowned the winner of Cycle 15. Not that it wasn't deserved — this is the model Season 2 Shandi Sullivan yearned to be.

Photo: Hollywood.com Staff

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Gretchen Jones, 'Project Runway,' Season 8

Gretchen's contentious win on Season 8 of the fashion reality series had fans crying foul. As a serious contender for the reality villain role, we all expected her to fall as good guy Mondo took the title. Yet, when the chips fell, so did our hopes.

Photo: Hollywood.com Staff

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Hosea Rosenberg, 'Top Chef,' Season 5

The milquetoast contestant was more focused on romancing Leah (with a girlfriend back home) than cooking adventurous, surprising dishes. Still, Hosea managed to claim victory over the likes of fan favorite Fabio and odds-on favorite Stefan. USA?

Photo: NBC

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Rachel Reilly, 'Big Brother,' Season 13

Everybody hates Rachel Reilly. (Except, of course, fiancé Brendon Villegas. They bonded over science, guys!) That's we were shocked to see her return to 'Big Brother 13'... then fight her way into the final two... then win enough votes from her fellow houseguests to bag the prize. Looks like she got the last (LOUD) laugh.

Photo: Hollywood.com Staff

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Tina Wesson, Survivor,' Season 2

Tina was the silent threat in 'Survivor''s Australian excursion, eventually beating out the affable Colby, despite his prowess in the challenges. In the end, it was was the brains that beat the brawn. A refreshing shock.

Photo: CBS

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Jeanine Mason, 'So You Think You Can Dance,' Season 5

Jeanine Mason was not only the youngest contestant on 'SYTYCD,' she was also one of the series more unexpected winners. Her screen time leading into the finals was minimal, but her talent was huge — big enough to beat favorites like Brandon.

Photo: FOX

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Ambre Lake, 'Rock of Love,' Season 2

Everyone expected plastic muppet Daisy De La Hoya to win the prize of being Bret Michaels' new short-lived girlfriend. After all, she had everything the rocker wanted: Boobs... boobs... eh, he's easy to please. Instead, Bret went with the age-appropriate, natural choice, Ambre. Too bad Ambre still couldn't rock his world like Michaels' longtime girlfriend, who he later wed.

Photo: Hollywood.com Staff

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Vienna Girardi, 'The Bachelor,' Season 14

Despite the fact that the press constantly gave Vienna the side-eye (hey, she gives it right back to us. ZING!) over rumors of her double life, selfishness, and even her stupidity, Jake gave his final rose to the contestant, leaving Tenley heartbroken. But, based on Jake's behavior during an interview after the two split, Vienna was smart to fly away from the pilot.